Backstage and A rave party at the National Theatre

I enjoyed the backstage tour guide of the National Theatre, because it showed the intricacies of theatre production. From the set making to the mechanics, I had previously believed that theatre, relied solely on the actors. I was most definitely mistaken. My favourite part of tour guide was when we were shown the technical aspect of how the stage functions, especially the functionality of the drum. I was also surprised when we were able to see the multiple stages of the National Theatre, my favourite being the stage that was hidden. Having this prior knowledge allowed me to appreciate the production of Hamlet, because I was able to find out what it actually takes to put on a theatrical production.

The national theatre’s redemption of Hamlet illustrates how an old theatrical work can we remade into a current hit. Hosted in the Oliver Theatre, the play uses modern themes to bring Shakespeare into a new era. Starring Rory Kinnear, as Hamlet, and joined by Clare Higgins (Gertrude), Patrick Malahide (Claudius), David Calder (Polonius), James Laurenson (Ghost/Player King) and Ruth Negga (Ophelia) the play offers a political, social, and psychological aspect to Shakespeare’s play. Using modernity, Hamlet makes the audience question the role of the state in their everyday life. Techniques such as surveillance, espionage, and treason were all highlighted through out the plot of the play. I believe this is the reason why the play has become such a box office production, because the message presented to the audience is one they are familiar with.

My favourite part of the play was how the human psyche was presented in Ophelia. Ruth Negga was stood with courage and projected a version of Ophelia, which can not be understood simply by reading the text. On stage with the audience, she stood as a proud actor stripped down to only her pants, which is something I personally would not have the courage to do. I also really enjoyed how Gertrude was portrayed in this production. I have seen many versions of Gertrude in cinema and theatre, but Clare Higgins depiction of her was amazing. The previous versions of this character I have seen, cast her as more of a majestic queen. For me this makes it hard to connect with her, and understand her role in Hamlet. But in this version, dressed in heels and a fabulous dress, with a cocktail in her hand throughout the play, I was able to see her true character.  

Felix Brown

University of California, Berkeley.